Description

Healthy Baby Network, a 28-year old non-profit dedicated to assisting pregnant women, fathers, and families, Fidelis Care, a statewide health plan with more than 2.5 million members in New York State, and Monroe County will create a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere where families can come together to exercise and learn about resources and have fun as they walk for wellness at Genesee Valley Park on Saturday, April 13.
Participants will learn the sobering statistics along the walk which include:

• In the Finger Lakes Region, the maternal mortality rate is a staggering 60% higher than the New York State average
• More than 84 percent of maternal deaths are preventable
• Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than white women
• Our Community Based Doula program achieved a noteworthy reduction in preterm birth rates, with only 5.3% of births resulting in preterm deliveries—approximately 50% lower than county and regional rates.
• Our Community Based Doula program has a 94% Breast/Chestfeeding initiation rate

Reporters are encouraged to cover the event:

• What: First Annual Walkathon during Black Maternal Health Week
• When: 9:30 a.m. Saturday, April 13
• Where: Genesee Valley Park – Roundhouse Shelter
• Who:
  • Malik Evans, Rochester Mayor
  • Fidelis Care Representative
  • Josie McClary, Monroe County, Chief Community Engagement Officer
  • Sherita Bullock, Healthy Baby Network, Executive Director
  • Jasmine Brewer, Healthy Baby Network, Doula Program Manager